Believing Lies

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“Woe to those who call evil good and good evil, who put darkness for light and light for darkness, who put bitter for sweet and sweet for bitter.” Isaiah 5:20

This world is full of sin and it has blinded the people from truth. God’s ways are so much different than anything man call’s important. A common belief says he who has the most in the end wins. But all they will win is loneliness, strife and death. If it’s possessions they desire they can never bring you happiness just more work and more worries. They will soon rot and be abandoned. I have learned a lot about possessions since I live in a nursing home. I came here with one suitcase and very little money but I never lack anything I need. God has blessed me so much. I also never worry about losing something because I’ve learned that possessions can’t make you happy if I lose something I’ll get a new one. God is my provider so I’m rich. If it is power it won’t last because others want it just as bad and will take it from you. Respect and a good reputation are no longer given because people make sure if they don’t have it neither do you. And they will purposely drag your name through the mud to be sure. The only one you can truly trust is God and he knows the complete truth and will share it with everyone. That truth can set you free. Most people don’t see themselves as not free. They want to be free to do what they want. To make their own mistakes if necessary. They think they can do anything they want as long as it doesn’t hurt others but the one they ultimately hurt is themselves. God’s ways may not make sense but they are perfect and will work every time. He loves and supports his children giving them everything they will ever need. As you submit to him and his ways you get more peace, and more blessings. There are still difficulties but he equips us to be overcomers just like him. Nothing is impossible for me. I don’t have to do everything for myself because he loves doing things for me and doesn’t require anything from me because he has everything already. I’ve given him my very best because he already gave me his very best.

Happily Ever After

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“In a flash, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. The trumpet will sound, and the dead in Christ will rise imperishable, and we will be changed.” 1 Corinthians 15:52

“We are confident, I say, and would prefer to be away from the body, and be at home with the Lord.“. 2 Corinthians 5:8

We are in the last days of this planet and we can see evil grow more every day and there are so many natural disasters such as earthquakes, fires and floods. Wars and unrest and extreme hatred. There is terrible pestilence such as Covid and cancer. We still need to be praying about these things but they have been forewarned. Are you doing all you can to finish your race strong? What more could you be doing to be all in? Have you asked for forgiveness for sins lately? Will you have regrets? Evil seems to be growing more each day and I am seeing things I could never imagine happening before that are becoming normal and accepted. The world could continue on for years or Jesus could return tomorrow but he will return when we least expect it. I am excited for heaven it is not called paradise for nothing. We won’t just be singing in God’s choir and playing harps all day there is so much to look forward to. I enjoy reading books about different near death experiences. Heaven sounds like a very exciting place. No more pain and no more tears. Perfect young bodies and understanding all things. It’s time to make sure you have your one way ticket ready. I know myself I have my momma and daddy anxiously waiting for my arrival. We have all lost friends and loved ones that we love and miss who will be waiting for us. When that last trumpet sounds and Jesus appears in the clouds it will be a great day because no more death. All those who have accepted Jesus and his precious gift of salvation will all get to meet him in the air. Returning to heaven with him at the same time and then spending eternity together never missing each other again. We will get to meet people like Moses and king David and getting to talk with people like Billy Graham. We will have all eternity to speak with so many different people especially Jesus himself. How could we ever get bored. But we need to be telling others that don’t know Jesus how much they are loved and what they are missing. By loving others into the kingdom so they will be coming with us. They won’t know all their missing if we don’t tell them. Knowing what awaits us in heaven makes it easier to tell others. God loves each person he made and wants to give them so much and do so much for them. He is our Father and loves us more than any natural father could because he is perfect. The more we follow his commands the more he blesses us. In heaven nobody can ever imagine all that is waiting for us. Even the little I’ve read about barely scratches the surface. God is only good and any good thing will be in heaven and we will get to spend eternity enjoying them. No evil either. We may enjoy time spent with friends and family here on Earth but not every day. Only once in a while but in heaven it will never end. There will be a huge reunion waiting for us when we arrive. The party will never end. I can just think about how I will feel sitting across from Jesus at the table in heaven. The more you think about it the more you will be ready to go. Just think about your very best vacation ever and it will be a million times better. And we’re almost there.

Tragedy Or Treasure

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“Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?” John 9:2

God is not vengeful or angry because we sin. He loves us and does not wish to see us doing things that he knows are not good for us. God can not do anything but good because he is good and perfect. By sinning we are sowing sin and yes it will come back to us in evil. But only Satan causes evil. God may allow evil if it brings glory to God and it is used for our good. Let me give you an example. I had a severe stroke when I was only 45, but I had been running from God and was living a destructive lifestyle. God allowed the stroke to wake me up and it did. It was really bad and I almost died but God had me in the palm of his hands. I had to work very hard but I now have a wonderful life. Yah the stroke was an awful thing and I lost everything I thought was important in my life. But I gained the one thing I didn’t even know I desperately needed. I realized that there was more to life than just me and I began to search for more and I found a wonderful relationship with my savior that I never knew before. People are always praying for God to heal me and restore what I have lost but he has healed me inside and that is more valuable than any physical healing could ever be. I am more grateful and blessed than I can imagine. If I am right where he wants me than I can’t have anything better. I have learned my purpose in the world and my handicap is a large part of it. I am touching more people right where I’m at and that has done so much for me. I still have struggles. We all will. Mine are just different from others. I have a pretty easy life because everyone does everything for me because I can’t. So it’s a pretty comfortable life of reading and writing and enjoying life. But life is just what you make it. Or how you appreciate what you have been given. It’s a treasure worth enjoying.

All In

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“Lord to whom shall we go? You have the words to eternal life. We have come to believe and to know that you are the Holy One of God.” John 6:68

“But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession , that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light. Once you were not a people, but now you are the people of God; once you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy.” 1 Peter 2:9-10

At one time I knew there was a God but I didn’t know God. Once God is revealed to you it changes everything. My eyes were opened and I knew that I knew that there was no other way for me. I remember I had been searching for more and decided to do whatever it took. Well one day I heard God speak to me that he loved me just like he loved David. Who me? David was a man after Gods own heart. But it says in the Bible that God loves everyone the same. He doesn’t have favorites. That really stuck with me. The more I sought the Lord the more he opened my eyes. You never know how much you need Jesus until you realize you could never live without him and you just want more. Before I wasn’t one of his chosen people but once I was, his grace and mercy became so evident in my life. Every day his mercy is more and more, giving me the strength, wisdom and desire to be all that he created me to be. It’s not up to me. I can do nothing good without him. I can try and wear myself out trying but it is his work in me that makes the difference. The life of a child of God can be so exciting if you let it and cooperate with God. He is doing so much all the time. It is not a boring life by any stretch of the imagination. It can be very exciting.. First of all his ways are not our ways. He will do whatever is necessary to meet different people right where they are. Example: he took a young shepherd boy and made him a giant slayer with a few rocks and then made him a very famous king. When you work for him and his kingdom you never know what you’ll experience. Some pretty cool stuff. Miracles! The more you ask for in prayer the more you can see. Healings, battling Satan and his evil bunch and just seeing God moving in the lives of different people around you. And he uses everyone that is willing to be used in awesome ways. Who knows what he has for your life next.

Truth Or Dare

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“You will hear of wars and rumors of wars, but see to it that you are not alarmed. Such things must happen, but the end is still to come.” Matthew 24:6

“I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the father but through me.” John 4:16

I remember my teenage years back in the 70’s we used to play a game called spin the bottle, and truth or dare. Telling a truth like have you ever done this or that. Or choosing to accept a dare. The dares were not always easy like jump in the pool in winter or kiss somebody. Well now days if you don’t want to accept the truth the dare might be more than you ever bargained for. Most people are raised to understand what’s right and what’s considered wrong like murder. But as we are taught more and more untruths we are becoming more and more tolerant of wrongs. This country was founded on Christian principles and patriotism. But people have gone away from that because then they might not be free to be who they are. To live how they want to live. They see Christian’s as weak and needy of a crutch to lean on. Closed minded and not in touch with reality. But in reality they see and know so much more than most will ever know and they have something more and exciting like love and peace that most will never experience. But we also know the real truth and he is living in us and is always with us. One day he is coming back to take us to paradise to live with him forever. The more we know him the more we can see the lies that are being taught around us that have been accepted as truth. Most of it can be very destructive and that is why our world keeps getting darker and scarier. There is also signs that are happening that show us that the world we live in can not exist for much longer the way it is going. Scientists have shown us that global warming and other things are taking a toll on this planet. There are so many things that could happen to destroy our planet. But right now we are seeing wars and rumors of war arising everywhere. Crimes of hate are increasing all over. Natural disasters such as hurricanes, tsunamis, earthquakes, fires are commonplace. Just this week I have seen so many devastating things occurring throughout the world. It is only going to get so much worse until no life exists on the planet. The only name that can change eternity of God’s wrath is Jesus. Jesus forgiveness can give you life not death.

Onward Christian Soldiers

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“For are struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.” Ephesians 6:12

As Christian’s we are in Gods army, everyone of us. It is not just for pastors or the leaders around us but he has called each of us. When you become a soldier of the American army you are sent to boot camp to learn what will be required of you. To receive your weapons and all important orders that you will need to do your job and stay alive. It’s very important that you use everything given to you to get the job done. Well it is no different with God. First of all he has given us his word written thousands of years ago but still very relevant for our lives today. He has given us his Holy Spirit to give us guidance and counsel and the strength to do what we need to do. He has given us the armor we will need to fight. The helmet of salvation, the breastplate of righteousness, the belt of truth, the shoes of peace, the sword of the spirit and the shield of faith. Everyone’s battle looks different. I remember the last few years I told God I didn’t understand why I had this stroke because it left me broken and unable to do much anymore. What could I possibly offer to God? Well he has plans for everyone and he will use everyone that will be used right where they’re at. I am in a wheelchair and speak with difficulty because of aphasia. People have difficulty understanding me and I can’t just get around and do everything like I once did but, God helps me write and communicate through my writing with people around the world, thanks to the World Wide Web. I write books, devotionals, and a blog. I am encouraging others in their Christian walk. Maybe he called you to feed the homeless or provide needs for the needy. To provide a service that is really needed or just to lift people up and encourage them. When Jesus called the apostles he didn’t pick leaders and perfect people that had everything together. The people he used in the Bible in powerful ways were usually the week and humble that didn’t see it in themselves. Perfect for God because that just makes him look good and even more powerful. The ones he has a hard time using are the ones who think they can do it themselves. They don’t need God or his help. So get out there and serve or love on others but be available for whatever God has for you. He will reward you greatly one day.

Forgiven

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“Lord do not hold this sin against them .” When he had said this he fell asleep.”

Forgiveness does not hurt you but unforgiving can hurt us greatly. It is a noose around our neck that continues to tighten and a weight that gets heavier the longer you hold that unforgiving in your heart. I love this verse because it says that as soon as he asks God not to hold this sin against them he falls asleep. No more pain of boulders hitting your body, bones breaking or fear. Sleep is peaceful and then waking up to the face of Jesus. Can anything be better than that. When he awoke there was such a party waiting for him. Considering how he died they were probably there to pat him on the back. But the greatest reward will come from the father who always loves to be gracious and proud of his children. Another thing that stood out to me was Paul standing by watching. When Stephen told God not to hold this against them Paul was probably the biggest instigator. He may have thought he was doing the right thing and helping God out by protecting his name but that unforgiveness was probably what helped Paul to forgive himself after he was transformed into the mighty man of God he became. If Stephen had not forgiven would Paul have gone on to write a large chunk of the Bible and bring about the saving of many lives. And even the Gentile people who wouldn’t be saved without Paul’s work and ministry. I know I am one very grateful Gentile. People don’t know why others do what they do because they have not walked in their shoes. Nobody knows the things they have faced in their lives. Hurting people tend to hurt people and holding the hurt against them only hurts you. You may lash out at them making them more miserable and less likely to ever be able to forgive themselves or think that God would ever forgive them. But the most important thing you are alive on planet earth for is to love others into the kingdom of heaven. How much harder are you making it for them by holding that grudge. Should people be cruel and hurtful? No. But oftentimes they do not understand the circumstances correctly and don’t even understand why they lash out the way they do but once it’s done it can’t be undone. I know myself I never want to do anything to hurt others but if I’m scared or misunderstood and get frustrated I can panic and fight or flight takes over and I eventually regret my behavior. God is currently working on this in me but it is very difficult for me. But Jesus told us to forgive and it is a command just like do not kill. Considering all he has forgiven me and others of without even thinking about it. I definitely need to forgive others because I wouldn’t want to be unforgiven for any of my mistakes and sins.

Children Of God

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“But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion for him; he ran to his son, threw his arms around him and kissed him.” Luke 15:20

We are all children of the most high God. Whether we acknowledge him or even want anything to do with him. Or even if we don’t even acknowledge that he exists. He still loves us. Even if you did not feel understood or loved by your family. Maybe you ran from them trying to find love and acceptance. That doesn’t mean that they didn’t love you. Maybe they spend every day worrying about you and hoping you come back home. It takes a mother and a father to be your parents. They loved and created you but ultimately God is your father, he is the one who gave you life. I have been reading a book about royalty, lords and dukes, kings and queens, during war times. People are normally taught to respect royalty and authority but we are all just humans. We all make mistakes and no one is more important than another. No one is more special than another . But we are also all royalty. The King of kings, Lord of lords, the most high authority of this planet is our papa and he loves us fiercely. He loves all his children equally and has told us to love others better than ourselves. He wants us to have great respect for our brothers and sisters because that is who they are really. We are all temporarily based on this planet trying to get by. We can do so much more if we just get along in unity. If we just learn to see each other through God’s eyes of love and compassion we will be so much better off. Treating others better and how you would like to be treated. We all want to be respected and loved. God has done all he can to get his kids to love each other. Now we just need to love him and thank him for that. If not he will still love us. Nothing we could do will make him love us more he already adores us. And he has time so he’ll keep waiting.

Awesome God

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“Taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the one who takes refuge in him.” Psalm 34:8

“Seek the Lord while he may be found; call on him while he is near.” Isaiah 55:6

People can say what they will about God, but until you have see his love and goodness and faithfulness for yourself you don’t know God. You also don’t know what you’re missing. I love good food and fresh food. Fresh fruits and vegetables mixed just right together can be so amazing. I remember when I was first married my husband had a nephew that would only eat hot dogs with ketchup or peanut butter and jelly sandwiches. He was very finicky. I remember one day someone made him a grilled cheese sandwich and he was amazed that it was so good. People just don’t get what they are missing by sticking with what they have always had or done. When I moved to the nursing home they had brussel sprouts and I had never tried them and I liked them. I also found that I loved fresh spinach salad. I would probably never have tried them but they were there so I tried them and liked them. When I was a teenager my parents decided to teach me to cook. They had me put together a menu and write up a shopping list. I loved shopping for food but I often spent too much because there were so many new and exciting foods to try. I always loved to experiment with different foods that looked good. I would buy lots of fresh ingredients and try to come up with cool ways to mix them together. My niece has to eat through a feeding tube because she just can’t eat anything. I feel she is missing so much but she doesn’t know any different because that is all she’s ever had. But God made some pretty great foods and great chefs that have created some amazing dishes. It sure would be a shame to miss something. God is the same way. Every time I read his words in the Bible I learn something new. I am almost 64 and have really learned so much the last several years because I have made a point of being intentional and learning all I can about him. I pray for so many people and God answers in so many awesome ways and it really encourages me, which just makes me ask bolder prayers that also get answered. So do yourself a favor and try something new. You’ll never know just what you’re missing, without taking the risk of not preferring something, to really find something you love. The peace that God can give shouldn’t be missed out on.

Relationship

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Christianity is not a religion. All religions such as Hinduism, Buddhism, Agnosticism, Atheism, Islam, Paganism, amongst others are based on things you need to do. None have a leader that is alive and that loves their followers and will do anything to really help them in life. Christianity is a relationship with Jesus Christ who willingly came to earth as a man to show how to live a full life. He died by crucifixion but came back to life after three days and was seen in bodily form by many and there is historical proof. He wants to know us deeply. Just as in a marriage you know your spouse intimately. At first your relationship is like a father and child. One of great love and security. He takes care of your needs and loves you like you are his only child. After you get to know him better because you talk to him in prayer and read more about him in the Bible. When you really get to know him and become intimate it grows like a marriage.When you are married it is for better or worse and you are still married even if you don’t do everything they ask. You are accepted completely up front. They may have things they prefer a certain way but they accept who you are because they already love you. You don’t realize how much you need Jesus until one day you realize you could never live without him and one day you will get to be with him forever in paradise which is perfect. You do the things he asks because you trust him and love him so much that you desire to see him smile at you. You don’t wish to do anything that would hurt him. You see all the wonderful things he has given you and he does for you every day. Simple things like the sun coming up in the morning to a friend healed of cancer. You become so thankful and grateful and you are so blessed every day. There is a peace that comes from intimacy that the world could never give. And you know every breath is a gift and one day you will breathe your last breath and be in paradise forever.